Jobs and Careers
SM

Assistant Retail Manager

Smithsonian Institution
Washington, United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 29 Jun 2026
💰 $55,000/yr($50,000/yr$55,000/yr)

About the role

Assistant Retail Manager

Application Deadline: 6 July 2026

Department: Smithsonian Enterprises

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Washington, DC

Reporting To: Store Area Manager

Compensation: $50,000 - $55,000 / year


Description

OPEN DATE: June 29, 2026                  
CLOSING DATE: July 6, 2026               
POSITION TYPE: Trust Fund
APPOINTMENT TYPE: Indefinite 
SCHEDULE: Full Time
DUTY LOCATION: Washington, DC 

Position sensitivity and risk: Low Risk

Open to all qualified applicants

What are Trust Fund Positions?
Trust Fund positions are unique to the Smithsonian. They are paid for from a variety of sources, including the Smithsonian endowment, revenue from our business activities, donations, grants and contracts. Trust employees are not part of the civil service, nor does trust fund employment lead to Federal status. The salary ranges for trust positions are generally the same as for federal positions and in many cases trust and federal employees work side by side. Trust employees have their own benefit program, which may include Health, Dental & Vision Insurance, Life Insurance, Transit/Commuter Benefits, Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance, Annual and Sick Leave, Family Friendly Leave, 403b Retirement Plan, Discounts for Smithsonian Memberships, Museum Stores and Restaurants, Credit Union, Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center (Child Care), Flexible Spending Account (Health & Dependent Care). 
 
Conditions of Employment
  • Pass Pre-employment Background Check and Subsequent Background Investigation for position designated.
  • Complete a Probationary Period.
  • Maintain a Bank Account for Direct Deposit/Electronic Transfer.
  • The position is open to all candidates eligible to work in the United States.  Proof of eligibility to work in U.S. is not required to apply.
  • Applicants must meet all qualification and eligibility requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement. 

OVERVIEW

The Smithsonian Museum’s Retail Stores on the National Mall in Washington DC are currently seeking experienced Assistant Store Managers. Put your retail management experience to work for the Smithsonian Institution!  Our Assistant Managers support the retail team to maximize the visitor experience and meet financial goals. Have fun, work in an awesome Smithsonian museum location, and be a part of this exciting time in the Smithsonian Institution’s 175+ year history!


DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Assist with driving sales to exceed budget through effective management of resources.
  • Learn budget allocation and communicate strengths, opportunities, and trends in business.
  • Operate and maintain store computer systems (POS cash registers, etc.), reporting any technical issues, while maintaining proper inventory of supplies.
  • Respond to customer inquiries and resolve issues, referring up as necessary.
  • Assist in staffing and scheduling including interviewing, hiring, and training. 
  • Assist with employee timekeeping and adjust schedules to match business needs.
  • Ensure compliance to all guidelines involved with safety, loss prevention, inventory control, and cash handling procedures.
  • Coordinate and support museum events.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

Education and Experience:  Bachelor’s degree and at least 2 years related management/supervisory experience, or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.  Retail management experience is required; high volume retail management is preferred.  
  • Solid experience managing all aspects of a retail store.
  • Proven leadership skills by building trust, credibility and partnership with supervisors and direct reports.
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively build, motivate, and supervise a diverse staff.
  • Solid experience with cash management, inventory management, and POS cash register systems.
  • Experience interpreting, analyzing, and utilizing retail sales data and metrics.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills; ability to effectively communicate with all levels within the organization.
  • Ability to resolve problems with effective solutions.
  • A reputation of integrity, both personally and professionally.
  • MS Office Proficiency.
Applican

Apply for this role

Generate a tailored application kit with a matched cover letter, interview prep, and CV highlights — in under 60 seconds.

Apply Now →Generate Application Kit

Free account required — sign up in 30s

Company

Smithsonian Institution

View company profile →